2027 Graduate – Reverse Engineer – Offensive Cyber Capabilities

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 85,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks motivated engineers to dive into reverse engineering of complex embedded systems. You will investigate software, firmware, and hardware, develop exploits, and collaborate in a lab focused on national security challenges.

This role requires strong problem solving, adaptability, and readiness to pursue a Top Secret clearance. Ideal candidates hold a Bachelor’s in a relevant field, demonstrate excellence in fundamentals, and show proficiency in

Qualifications

• Are graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
• Have an excellent academic record with demonstrated knowledge of fundamental topics such as computer architecture, operating systems, and data structures
• Are proficient with one or more programming language
• Have experience using debuggers and reverse engineering tools such as Ghidra, IDA, and Binary Ninja
• Love solving puzzles and have experience persevering through technical challenges
• Are excited to learn new tools, platforms, and programming languages
• Are able to obtain a Top Secret security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI with polygraph clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information; eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

Responsibilities

• Be mentored by top experts to learn the art and science of reverse engineering
• Perform deep investigations of software, firmware, and hardware
• Develop exploits against embedded systems and build mission-aligned capabilities
• Collaborate with teammates in custom laboratories purpose-built for foreign materiel, telecommunications infrastructure, and other embedded systems
• Propose new ideas for internal and external funding opportunities
• Share knowledge by clearly articulating ideas through papers and presentations to team members, APL management, and government decision maker

Skills

Programming

Reverse engineering

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering/CS/EE

Master's degree in Computer Science/Engineering (preferred)

Tools

Ghidra

IDA Pro

Binary Ninja

Oscilloscopes

Logic analyzers

Job description

Description

Do you have an insatiable curiosity to understand how things work?

Do you have an insatiable curiosity to understand how things work?
Are you ready to take your reverse engineering skills to the next level?
We’re looking for motivated and enthusiastic engineers who are excited to dive deep into complex embedded systems, discover vulnerabilities, and build offensive cyber capabilities that solve real-world national security challenges. We believe the best solutions start with curious minds, expertise, and technical ingenuity. If you’re eager to grow alongside world‑class experts while tackling problems that others consider impossible, we’d love to have you join our team at APL!

As a member of our group, you will…

• Be mentored by top experts to learn the art and science of reverse engineering
• Perform deep investigations of software, firmware, and hardware
• Develop exploits against embedded systems and build mission-aligned capabilities
• Collaborate with teammates in custom laboratories purpose-built for foreign materiel, telecommunications infrastructure, and other embedded systems
• Propose new ideas for internal and external funding opportunities
• Share knowledge by clearly articulating ideas through papers and presentations to team members, APL management, and government decision maker
  

Qualifications

• Are graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
• Have an excellent academic record with demonstrated knowledge of fundamental topics such as computer architecture, operating systems, and data structures
• Are proficient with one or more programming language
• Have experience using debuggers and reverse engineering tools such as Ghidra, IDA, and Binary Ninja
• Love solving puzzles and have experience persevering through technical challenges
• Are excited to learn new tools, platforms, and programming languages
• Are able to obtain a Top Secret security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI with polygraph clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information; eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.
  

You’ll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you…

• Are graduating with a Master’s degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
• Participate in hackathons, CTFs, cybersecurity clubs or other relevant extracurriculars
• Have relevant internship experience
• Have experience applying AI systems to reverse engineering, vulnerability research, or exploit development
• Understand Unix/Linux operating systems
• Are familiar with assembly language
• Are skilled with tools including oscilloscopes, multi-meters, power supplies, and logic analyzers
• Have demonstrated leadership experience
• Possess an active TS/SCI clearance with full scope polygraph
  

About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world‑class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore‑Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact [e-mail].

Minimum Rate
$85,000 Annually

Maximum Rate
$165,000 Annually